When the long and dark days begin to settle in over Seattle, you may be looking to escape the rain and dreary weather. While yes, most days you are thankful to not wake up to snow-covered streets, a winter wonderland makes the perfect weekend getaway. Fortunately, there is a bevy of jaw-dropping places to visit near Seattle in winter months when you’re ready for a little TLC.
So, grab your thickest jacket, your favorite hot chocolate mug, and a pocketful of hand warmers. Here are five of the top places to visit near Seattle in winter months!
1. Soap Lake
When you need to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Soap Lake can deliver abundant amounts of peace and tranquility. The naturally occurring, mineralized water in the lake is one of the highest in the world. Because of this, the lake brings in hoards of local, national, and international visitors every year! Many believe the waters to have a magical effect.
As you may know, mineral water provides a host of wellness benefits. This includes the treatment of ailments such as eczema, muscle aches, and pains. During summer months, guests tend to enjoy the minerals by wading through the waters or enjoying a famous mud bath. But, don’t worry – in the wintertime, you can still enjoy the mineral water as well.
During colder seasons, Soap Lake Natural Spa & Resort is lauded for its calming effects and its scenic setting. If you stay at the resort, you have access to your very own, in-room, private Jetted Tub, filled with water from the lake! And, in addition to the mineral waters, guests can enjoy the dining at the Lakeside Bistro, relax in one of the charming cabins, and unplug from the stress of day-to-day life.
To book a wintertime getaway at Soap Lake Resort, visit the website here. Gift cards are also available for gift-giving convenience. The staff at Soap Lake Spa and Resort looks forward to serving you today!
2. Leavenworth
This Bavarian style mountain village is the perfect, snow-covered getaway. Nestled into the scenic Cascades Mountains, the lively town of Leavenworth displays the true spirit of the holiday season! Here, you will find millions of twinkling lights all aglow and a traditional Christmas tree in the center of town. Live holiday music performances and warm mulled wine create a perfect holiday experience.
Plus, once you head out of town, you will find plenty of opportunities to hit the slopes and go skiing or snowboarding. If slow-paced activities are more of your style, you might try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing! Regardless, whether you are traveling alone or with your family, Leavenworth serves as the perfect weekend getaway.
3. Suncadia
For a full-service resort experience high up in the mountains, look no further than Suncadia Resort. Conveniently located just a few miles off of I-90 approximately 90 minutes from Seattle, Suncadia is an ideal choice for those looking for an abundance of outdoor activities.
A vast network of trails provides plenty of opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. Visitors of all ages will delight in the sleigh rides, ice skating rink, and tubing hill. The nearby Summit at Snoqualmie ski resort will please those looking for an adrenaline rush.
4. Great Wolf Lodge
Great Wolf Lodge boasts a massive indoor water park complete with thrilling slides, a wave pool, and a specially designed kiddie area for the younger set. An arcade, a variety of on-site restaurants, and a spa appeal to people of all ages and interests, making this destination the perfect trip. This family-friendly destination is located approximately 90 minutes south of Seattle on I-5, enabling a convenient getaway for those seeking a water park experience in the middle of winter.
5. Chelan
Primarily known as a summer destination, Lake Chelan is a hidden gem in the winter. The gray and gloom will quickly disappear once you get over the pass and experience the sunny winter conditions in Chelan. The Echo Ridge ski area is located just ten miles from Chelan, offering over 25 miles of trails. The quaint town of Chelan is a festive winter wonderland, featuring a myriad of dining, shopping, and wine tasting opportunities.
Places to Visit Near Seattle in Winter
With so many places to visit near Seattle in winter within such a short driving distance, you are sure to find the getaway that oyu are looking for! Whether you are interested in a calming, cabin getaway at Soap Lake, or a thrilling weekend of snow sports, there are more than enough options. Now, the only thing you have to worry about is choosing which one.